The song introduced the world to the "Big Poppa" persona—a charismatic, wealthy "player" who enjoys the finer things in life.
Decades later, it remains a staple of 90s hip-hop, frequently appearing in films like Hardball (2001), Superbad (2007), and the biopic Notorious (2009).
Released on December 24, 1994, is one of the most defining tracks in hip-hop history. As the second single from The Notorious B.I.G.'s debut album, Ready to Die , it transformed him from a gritty street lyricist into a smooth, mainstream superstar. Production and Sound The Notorious B.I.G. - Big Poppa
The song's core is built around a smooth sample of The Isley Brothers’ "Between the Sheets" (1983).
The single was certified platinum and earned a nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance at the 1996 Grammy Awards (losing to Coolio's "Gangsta's Paradise"). The song introduced the world to the "Big
Watch this clip to hear Biggie himself discuss the massive impact 'Big Poppa' had on his career and the public's perception of him:
Produced by Chucky Thompson and Sean "Puffy" Combs, the beat was originally intended for the group Lost Boyz before Combs traded another beat to get it back for Biggie. Lyrical Themes As the second single from The Notorious B
It features a high-pitched "whistle" melody played on a Minimoog synthesizer, a signature element of West Coast production that led critics to call it the East Coast's answer to Dr. Dre.